Pip the puppy loved playing all day long! He'd chase squirrels, dig in the garden, and tumble in the grass. But when bedtime came, Pip sometimes found it hard to settle down.
One evening, Mama Dog taught Pip a special trick: meditation. 'Close your eyes, Pip,' she said gently. 'And think of quiet, happy things.'
Pip closed his eyes, and he imagined a soft, warm sunbeam. It felt so cozy and peaceful. He thought of his favorite squeaky toy, a little blue bird. It made him giggle quietly.
Then, Pip imagined fluffy clouds drifting slowly across a bright blue sky. Each cloud was soft and white like cotton candy. He watched them float and felt himself becoming calm and peaceful.
Mama Dog's gentle voice guided him. 'Breathe in slowly... and breathe out slowly... feel your tummy rise and fall.' Pip listened and felt his body relaxing more and more.
He imagined a calm lake, so still you could see the fish swimming beneath. He saw colorful flowers growing on the shore. A gentle breeze whispered through the leaves, and Pip felt a warm, sleepy feeling spread through him.
Pip's heart felt light and happy. He continued to breathe slowly, in and out. All the busy thoughts in his head began to fade away, replaced by a quiet peacefulness.
Soon, Pip felt ready for sleep. The warm, soft feeling spread throughout his body, making him feel safe and secure. He opened his eyes, feeling calm and peaceful, and snuggled down for a peaceful night's sleep.
Meditation helped Pip find quiet moments of calm even when his day was full of fun and games. He knew that even when he felt excited or worried, he could always use this special trick to bring himself back to peace and quiet, ready for bed.